MOCA Los Angeles lays off 97 part-time staff amid COVID-19 closure

The Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles terminated 97 part-time employees, representing more than half of its 185-person workforce, as the institution remains shuttered due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Gallery invigilators, retail assistants, and other staff unable to work remotely were affected by the temporary layoffs, which museum officials hope to reverse when operations resume. A statement cited the need to protect public health and the institution's future in accordance with government mandates. MOCA is collaborating with its union, formed in December 2019, to mitigate the impact on all affected employees, though not all are union members. The museum emphasized its commitment to community well-being during these challenging times.